Suma Didi of Balaghat Becomes a ‘Business Woman’

“With passion and determination, our mothers and sisters too can become businesswomen,” said Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in the 123rd episode of Mann Ki Baat, as he highlighted the inspiring story of Suma Uike, a woman entrepreneur from Bhajiyapar village in Katangi block, Balaghat district, Madhya Pradesh. PM Shri Modi praised how Suma Uike transformed her life with hard work, self-confidence, and support from the State Livelihood Mission, becoming self-reliant and a source of inspiration for other women. Following the mention in Mann Ki Baat, a wave of pride and excitement has spread not only across Balaghat but throughout the state.

From Homemaker to Successful Entrepreneur

Suma Uike was once engaged only in household duties. However, with guidance from Livelihood Mission personnel, she realized the value of self-help groups (SHGs) and went on to form the Adivasi Aajeevika Vikas SHG, becoming its president. She received training in organic mushroom cultivation from RSETI and animal husbandry from CTC. In 2021, she started mushroom farming with a small loan of Rs. 2,000. Though her efforts were initially hindered by the pandemic lockdown, Suma Didi remained determined.

From Didi Canteen to Thermal Therapy — Income Over Double

In 2022, Suma was given the opportunity to operate a Didi Canteen at the Katangi Janpad Panchayat premises, which brought her a monthly income of around Rs. 8,000. She also employed another woman from her SHG. Later, she received training in thermal therapy, and through support from the MUDRA scheme, she secured a loan of Rs. 6 lakh and started her own Thermal Therapy Center, earning an additional Rs. 11,000 per month and providing employment to another young woman.

A Symbol of Self-Reliance and Inspiration

With her involvement in mushroom farming, Didi Canteen, and Thermal Therapy Center, Suma Didi’s monthly income has now reached Rs. 19,000, while her family’s total income has grown to Rs. 32,000 per month. She now actively works as a grassroots representative of the Livelihood Mission and is inspiring other women to join SHGs and become self-reliant.

PM Modi’s recognition of her work in Mann Ki Baat is not only a proud moment for Suma Uike but also for the entire Balaghat district and the state. Today, she symbolizes the spirit of thousands of women who dare to dream big despite limited resources—and turn those dreams into reality.